Breast Augmentation 
Breast augmentation currently ranks as the most sought after cosmetic surgery procedure in the US, according to the figures published by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. The surgery has become less invasive and less painful due to innovations in surgical techniques over the years. However, some risks will remain intrinsic to breast augmentation, just like other surgeries. At the time of initial consultation, the surgeon will apprise the patient about the potential risks and temporary side effects that the procedure will involve. The surgeon’s first concern will be to enable the patient to make a careful choice after having access to all pertinent information. Board certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak provides breast augmentation to patients in Houston, Texas, and neighborhoods around Houston and across this part of the nation.
Breast Implant Risks
The procedure will involve the placement of silicone or saline breast implants, which creates its own unique risks for a procedure such as breast augmentation plastic surgery.
Capsular Contracture
As the implants placed inside the breast tissue, the body’s immune response will lead to the formation of scar tissue around the implant. This scar tissue can sometimes tend to harden or contract, which will place the implant under undue pressure. If the scar tissue becomes excessively hard, it will squeeze the silicone shell of the implant, causing it to get damaged, misshaped or move from its position. Hardening of the breast capsule may also cause pain or discomfort to the patient. In such a situation, a breast implant removal or replacement surgery may have to be performed.
Implant Rippling
In some cases, the amount of skin available in the breast area may be limited, but the implant size may be much larger. This may cause the implant to develop creases or folds, resulting in a rippling effect on the surface. It will compromise the natural aesthetic appearance of the breast. Experienced surgeons will guide the patient to choose the appropriate size of implants according to their breast anatomy so that the risk of implant rippling is minimized. Experienced female cosmetic surgeon Dr. Hustak receives patients from Houston, Texas, and other cities around Houston for breast implant surgery.
Implant Shifting
In rare cases, the implant may move from its desired position soon after the breast implant procedure has been performed. With larger sized implants, the risk of displacement is higher, but the risk of implant rupture is common to all implant sizes.
Surgery-related Risks
Some risks are inherent to all surgeries, including breast augmentation.
Infection
Infection risks can be minimized if the breast implant surgery is performed at a professional surgical facility with a sterile surgical environment. Antibiotics may be prescribed by the surgeon for a few days following the surgery to reduce the risk of infection after the procedure.
Altered Sensation in Nipples
Numbness, sensitivity or changed sensation may occur in the nipple area after breast implant surgery. The condition will usually resolve quickly, but in some cases, the change of sensation may be prolonged or even permanent. A skillful surgeon will adopt a conservative surgery approach to minimize such risks.
For more information on procedures and treatments provided by board certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak please call us to schedule a consultation at 713.322.7265 or click here. Offices in Houston, Texas.
